Best Raleigh to Knoxville Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Raleigh to Knoxville Movers

Moving from the City of Oaks to the Marble City isn't just a change of scenery; it's an adventurous leap into a new chapter of your life. Leaving behind Raleigh's oak-lined streets and spirited vibes for Knoxville's blend of urban energy and natural beauty, where the Great Smoky Mountains call, signifies a noteworthy transition. For such a significant move, ensuring you have trusted and reliable professional movers by your side is crucial—after all, we understand that the key to a smooth transition is in the reliability of the hands carrying your life from one city to the next.

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Best Raleigh to Knoxville Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.43NRActiveContact
Athens Moving Experts9.34A+Authorized For HHGContact
Boundless Moving & Storage9.33A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Capital Moving & Storage9.27NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Buster’s Box’s Moving9.00NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Knoxville to Raleigh guide.

5 Best Raleigh to Knoxville Moving Companies

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.43/10
based on 954+ data points

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

Services

  • Free estimates
  • Full Value Protection (FVP)
  • Fully licensed and insured

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3344628 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
1
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 4,516+ data points

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3205320 / 204920

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Boundless Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,378+ data points

About Boundless Moving & Storage

Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers re...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2798532 / 934519

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved358,520 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Capital Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.27/10
based on 1,596+ data points

About Capital Moving & Storage

Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3623752 / 1238777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved108,816 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Buster’s Box’s Moving Logo
Superb9.00/10
based on 430+ data points

About Buster’s Box’s Moving

Buster’s Box’s Moving is a Knoxville, TN-based moving company that offers a variety of services including local moves, out of state moves, o...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4125824 / 1578852

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Raleigh vs. Knoxville Neighborhood Comparison

Making a move can be daunting, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we're offering a comparison of local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Knoxville, TN , designed to help you find a new home base that feels familiar. Drawing parallels between popular neighborhoods, we aim to offer insights that connect your current locale in Raleigh with similar vibes in Knoxville.

RaleighKnoxvilleHow They're Similar
North HillsSequoyah HillsFamily-friendly with a blend of shopping and nature
Five PointsBeardenEclectic mix of dining and unique shops
Boylan HeightsFourth and GillHistoric homes with a strong sense of community
Cameron VillageMarket SquareBustling with shops and eateries
OakwoodOld North KnoxvilleRich in history with charming architecture
Glenwood SouthDowntown KnoxvilleVibrant nightlife and arts scene
MordecaiIsland Home ParkQuaint, with a tight-knit community feel
Brier CreekWest KnoxvilleModern conveniences and shopping galore
Warehouse DistrictOld CityTrendy, with a rich artistic and cultural scene
MidtownFort SandersLively, young atmosphere close to university

For those who revel in the eclectic vibe of Five Points' dining and shopping scene in Raleigh, you'll adore Bearden in Knoxville, which is teeming with unique bistros and boutiques such as The Plaid Apron for culinary delight, and Union Ave Books for the book enthusiasts. Fans of the historic and community-driven atmosphere of Boylan Heights will find a kindred spirit in Knoxville's Fourth and Gill neighborhood, where events like the annual Fourth and Gill Tour of Homes bring residents together. Meanwhile, lovers of Glenwood South's vibrant nightlife will be drawn to Downtown Knoxville’s energy, highlighted by venues like the Scruffy City Hall for live music and an extensive beer selection. Through these connections, the transitions from Raleigh to Knoxville might just feel like rediscovering home.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Knoxville

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Knoxville

Moving from city to city is not just about a change of address, it’s about transitioning into a new lifestyle. Exploring the upsides and downsides of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Knoxville, TN will shed light on the genuine experiences awaiting you. The purpose of the following charts is to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh your decisions wisely.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic congestion
  • Fewer outdoor activities
  • Less historic charm
Knoxville, TN iconKnoxville, TN
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • More outdoor attractions
  • Rich historic area
Knoxville, TN iconKnoxville, TN
  • Smaller tech scene
  • Fewer restaurants
  • Smaller city feel
  • Fewer job options
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Vibrant tech hub
  • Diverse dining options
  • Larger city perks
  • More job opportunities

While the financial appeal of Knoxville's lower cost of living is undeniable, this is just the tip of the iceberg. The city's historic Market Square offers a picturesque setting with an array of local shops and restaurants that provide a cozy yet vibrant lifestyle. In contrast, Raleigh's bustling North Hills area offers a modern city environment bursting with job opportunities, especially in the tech sector. Notably, Knoxville’s natural surroundings invite more outdoor pursuits. Places like the Urban Wilderness offer a unique blend of hiking, biking, and historical exploration, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. This detailed look into both cities illustrates a stark contrast in lifestyle — from Raleigh's urban work-centric environment to Knoxville's leisurely pace and historical richness.

Raleigh vs. Knoxville Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Knoxville, focusing on the gastronomic scene that plays a pivotal role in experiencing the local culture and lifestyle. If you're considering a move, this comparison will offer you a taste of what to expect food-wise in your new home.

RaleighKnoxville
Most iconic local food itemNorth Carolina BBQTennessee BBQ
Most popular meat dishPulled porkSmoked brisket
Most popular street food itemHot dogsTacos
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitSeitan Steaks
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Pit
  • Brewery Bhavana
  • Poole's Diner
  • Stock & Barrel
  • The Tomato Head
  • Sweet P's BBQ
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Raleigh, the local BBQ scene is eminent, with North Carolina BBQ being a must-try for any food lover; places like The Pit are often bustling with locals and tourists alike. Knoxville counters with its own trademark in the form of Tennessee BBQ, with establishments such as Sweet P's BBQ offering a taste of the city's heritage. Raleigh prides itself on a vibrant array of food trucks and vegan options, reflecting its diverse and health-conscious community. Knoxville, though slightly trailing in the vegan and food truck scene, offers an array of street food options, with tacos being particularly popular among locals. Whether you're exploring the historic City Market in Raleigh or strolling through Market Square in Knoxville, you'll find each city's food scene to be a unique blend of traditional flavors and innovative culinary experiments.

Raleigh vs. Knoxville Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite dining spot is crucial when relocating. This restaurant comparison between Raleigh, NC, and Knoxville, TN, serves as your culinary guide, aiming to ease your transition by highlighting similar eateries in your new home city. Explore this chart to discover Knoxville parallels to your beloved Raleigh restaurants.

RaleighKnoxvilleWhat You'll Love
Poole's DinerJ.C. HoldwaySouthern-inspired, chef-driven cuisine
Bida MandaChaiyo's Thai & SushiAuthentic Thai dining experience
Beasley's Chicken + HoneySweet P's BBQ and Soul HouseSouthern comfort food with a twist
Brewery BhavanaEmiliaItalian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients
GarlandKaizenAsian fusion with an inventive menu
Death & TaxesThe Plaid ApronCreative American dishes in a cozy setting
Mateo Bar de TapasAbridged Beer CompanyNotably creative small plates and brews
The Pit Authentic BarbecueDead End BBQAuthentic BBQ with a local touch
The Angus BarnConnors Steak & SeafoodSteakhouse known for quality and consistency
Crawford and SonLonesome Dove Western BistroUpscale dining with a unique spin

When exploring the dining scene in Knoxville, you'll find establishments that resonate with the diverse culinary landscape of Raleigh. For example, J.C. Holdway mirrors the Southern charm and chef-driven focus of Poole's Diner, offering a fresh perspective on regional dishes. Fans of authentic Thai cuisine who frequented Bida Manda in Raleigh will find a new haven in Chaiyo's Thai & Sushi, which offers an equally compelling dining experience with its authentic flavors and thoughtful presentation. Similarly, the transition from Brewery Bhavana’s Asian fusion and communal aesthetic finds a parallel in Knoxville's Kaizen, where inventive Asian-inspired dishes create a bridge between the familiar and the new. These comparisons aim to make your culinary journey in Knoxville as exciting and comforting as your experiences in Raleigh.

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Raleigh vs. Knoxville Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a key factor when considering a move. Knowing how Raleigh, NC and Knoxville, TN stack up against each other can help make your decision easier. Our comparison highlights the critical aspects of housing, including cost and lifestyle characteristics, to offer valuable insights.

ComparisonRaleighKnoxville
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, CraftsmanCraftsman, Victorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOpen floor plans, hardwood floorsMountain views, spacious lots

When comparing Raleigh and Knoxville, the most striking difference is the cost of living related to housing. Knoxville tends to be more affordable in both the housing purchase and rental markets. The preference for Craftsman and Victorian-style homes in Knoxville contrasts with Raleigh's affinity for Colonial and Craftsman designs, reflecting a mix of historical and modern tastes. Knoxville's higher walkability score indicates a more pedestrian-friendly environment, which can be a significant advantage for those valuing accessibility and a close-knit community feel. The presence of mountain views and spacious lots in most Knoxville real estate listings also echoes the city's appreciation for nature and outdoor living, making it an attractive option for those seeking a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Knoxville, TN

1. Sequoyah Hills: With expansive green spaces like Sequoyah Park, your pets can enjoy long walks along the Tennessee River, making it a haven for dog owners.

2. Bearden: Bearden offers a pet-friendly community vibe, with numerous farmers' markets and outdoor cafes where your pets are welcome to join you.

3. Old City: The Old City neighborhood is bustling with pet-friendly bars and restaurants, alongside stylish boutiques that often allow pets to accompany their owners while shopping.

Raleigh vs. Knoxville Weather Considerations

When considering a move from Raleigh, NC to Knoxville, TN, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This comparison will help you adapt to your new environment seamlessly, ensuring you're prepared for the Raleigh vs. Knoxville climate differences.

Summer icon
89/68

Raleigh, NC

87/66

Knoxville, TN

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/30

Raleigh, NC

47/28

Knoxville, TN

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Raleigh, NC

48

Knoxville, TN

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6

Raleigh, NC

6

Knoxville, TN

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonRaleighKnoxville
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, StormsStorms, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Raleigh to Knoxville, you'll notice subtle differences in weather patterns, such as slightly cooler winter temperatures and fewer days of sunshine in Knoxville. Both cities experience a high level of humidity and similar top seasonal allergies due to pollen and mold. However, you might find Raleigh's hurricane season presents a different set of natural disaster concerns compared to Knoxville's susceptibility to floods. Understanding these nuances can help you prepare appropriately for your new home in Tennessee.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Knoxville

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. Comparing the cost of living and financial landscape between Raleigh, NC, and Knoxville, TN, will prepare you for the economic environment you're about to enter. This includes key metrics like income, taxes, and the overall affluence or challenges you might face.

ComparisonRaleighKnoxville
Avg. Household Income$74,612$45,700
Cost of Living Index98.289.4
State Income Tax5.250 (TN does not tax wages)
Avg. Property Tax0.860.74
Avg. Sales Tax7.259.25
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Healthcare, EducationManufacturing, Retail, Healthcare
AffluenceModerately affluentLess affluent
PovertyLowerModerately high
HomelessnessMinimalNoticeable

On the surface, Raleigh enjoys a slightly higher average household income and affluence compared to Knoxville. However, when accounting for the cost of living and the lack of state income tax in Tennessee, the financial comfort in Knoxville may stretch further than initially apparent. Property and sales taxes in Knoxville are more favorable for ownership and consumption, respectively, albeit the higher sales tax. Additionally, the predominant industries in each city hint at the diverse economic opportunities available, shaping each city's financial health and opportunities for residents.

Raleigh vs. Knoxville Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Raleigh, NC, to Knoxville, TN, understanding the comparison of the politics between Raleigh & Knoxville and their communities' religious makeup can offer insight into what to expect. This quick snapshot aims to give you a clearer picture of the local culture and social landscape you're moving into.

RaleighKnoxville
Political Make-upLean DemocraticLean Republican
Local PoliticsProgressive PoliciesConservative Orientation
ReligionPlurality of religions with a significant Christian basePredominantly Christian, with strong Baptist roots

In both Raleigh and Knoxville, the religious landscape is predominantly Christian, but Knoxville has a more pronounced Baptist influence, reflecting its deeply rooted Southern Baptist traditions. Meanwhile, Raleigh’s political scene is more progressive, with policies and elected officials typically leaning towards the Democratic side. This contrasts with Knoxville, where the political climate tends to favor conservative views, aligning more closely with Republican values. Understanding these differences can help you anticipate the social and cultural environment of your new home.

Raleigh vs. Knoxville Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving between cities often means adapting to new commuting realities. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Knoxville aims to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like as you plan your move.

ComparisonRaleighKnoxville
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2522
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible, but challengingDifficult

In both Raleigh and Knoxville, owning a car can greatly enhance your mobility and convenience, yet it's slightly more feasible to rely on public transit in Raleigh. With an average commute time that is a bit longer in Raleigh, the city compensates with better available public transit options, ranked at 5 out of 10, versus Knoxville's 3. However, traffic congestion is less of an issue in Knoxville with a lower score, suggesting smoother daily commutes. Despite these differences, both cities present their unique challenges and benefits when it comes to navigating their streets and transit systems. In Knoxville, the reliance on a car is stronger due to the limited availability of public transportation services.

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